Best Train Games of 2024: Top 10 Reviews
All aboard the train board game adventure! We’ve rounded up the top 10 train-themed games worth your time and table space. Our journey focuses on fun, strategy, and a touch of nostalgia. As we chug along, we ensure the games offer engaging gameplay and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re plotting routes or managing resources, these board games promise a ride full of excitement and challenge. Gather your friends, get your conductor hats on, and let’s embark on a locomotive-filled gaming experience. These picks will make you a train board game enthusiast in no time!
On this list:
10 Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is the classic train board game that started it all for many of us. It’s easy to pick up, but has enough strategy to keep things interesting. You lay out your routes and try to connect cities across the map, which might just spark a bit of friendly competition. Perfect for folks who are new to board gaming, or those who enjoy a little rivalry without the need to memorize rules. Our game nights with Ticket to Ride often end with laughter and a bit of healthy trash talk.
9 Railroad Ink
Railroad Ink is all about creating the best network of train tracks and roads. It’s a real puzzle and gets you thinking. In this game, the dice decide the tracks, and you decide how to connect them. It’s quick and fun, and since it’s a roll-and-write, there’s not much setup, which is perfect for when you’re short on time. We like to play this one as a warm-up before getting into heavier games. Plus, scribbling all over the dry-erase boards reminds me of doodling in school!
8 TransAmerica
TransAmerica is all about quick and strategic connections across the USA. It’s simple, but never too easy, making it just the right balance for a light game night. You don’t need to be a train aficionado to enjoy this one, and it’s a great pick for families. Our group has had a blast playing it, and it’s always interesting to see who can connect their cities first. It’s a great way to unwind without getting too competitive, unless someone’s blocking your tracks!
7 1846: The Race for the Midwest
1846 is a train game with an economic twist. It’s part of the 18XX series, and while it might seem daunting at first, the depth and richness of the gameplay are worth it. You take on the role of a railroad tycoon, investing in companies and building out your rail network. It’s like playing the stock market with train tracks. When we played this, I ended up feeling like a real business mogul, even if my empire crumbled a few times.
6 Steam: Rails to Riches
Steam is all about building tracks and delivering goods. It’s a bit more complex, but once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly rewarding. You have to balance between expanding your railways and ensuring your deliveries are profitable. It’s a game of strategy and foresight, and definitely one to dive into with a committed group. It’s not just about trains – it’s about creating an empire. Our group loves the blend of logistics and strategic planning this game brings.
5 Russian Railroads
Russian Railroads offers a rich and strategic train-building experience. It’s worker placement with trains, which always surprises newcomers. It’s the kind of game that rewards careful planning and consideration. I once managed to score big by focusing on one type of rail, and the satisfaction was real! It’s engaging and keeps everyone on their toes. Russian Railroads is great for when you want a more involved game night with friends who love a bit of strategy.
4 Tramways
Tramways is unique because it combines city-building with train routes. You design your tramway to connect buildings and bring passengers to their destinations. It’s all about optimizing routes and efficiency. It’s a brainy game, where every decision counts—perfect for those who love a challenge. Our group had a blast trying to outdo one another while keeping our tramways running seamlessly. If you’ve ever wanted to be a city planner for a day, Tramways is your ticket!
3 Age of Steam
Age of Steam is an epic train game experience. It’s got a bit of everything: building, delivering, and managing your resources. It’s one where you have to think ahead, plan wisely, and adapt to your opponents. It’s thrilling and intense, and definitely for those who love deep strategy. I managed to claw my way from the back to win once, and it felt like a grand adventure. If you’re ready for a bigger challenge, Age of Steam is a top pick.
2 Whistle Stop
Whistle Stop is a lighter yet strategic train game. You expand across the map collecting goods, using your whistles, and gaining shares. It’s got that take-that feel, without being overly mean. Its modular board keeps things fresh and exciting every game. I love the colorful design and the feeling of exploring new terrains. This game brings a lot of fun to the table without taking too long, perfect for those wanting just the right amount of strategy and playfulness.
1 Brass: Birmingham
Brass: Birmingham takes the cake as the best train-themed board game because of its rich depth and engaging play. It’s not only about trains, but about building an industrial network in the 19th century. This mix of economic strategy, area control, and network building keeps everyone hooked. It’s a game that demands attention to detail and strategic planning, making it deeply satisfying. We always find ourselves drawn back to it because of the different paths to victory. Its balance of complexity and accessibility makes it perfect for any game night. Birmingham stands out because of its incredible replayability and the joy of creating your own industry empire.
